Blades ready for Shakers test

12 July 2013

David Weir is looking forward to the Blades first pre-season action on home soil this weekend.

United will visit Gigg Lane on Saturday to face Bury, the first of three games against League Two opponents, with Mansfield Town and York City also penciled in to tackle the Blades before the Football League seasons get underway at the beginning of August.

Looking ahead to the challenge his side will face against Kevin Blackwell's Shakers, the United boss said:

"It is a good fixture and a reasonably local one too. It will be a step on from our three games in Scotland.

"It will be a quick turnaround from Scotland and given the weather there are several factors to consider but it is another game for us to look forward to.

"Bury will be a good test for us and we will certain look to increase the minutes of certain players to make sure everyone is at the same level. We haven't got any injuries to worry about, just a few bumps and bruises."

Weir says after a solid start, in terms of results, to pre-season, United may look to be a bit more expansive in forthcoming friendlies.

He concluded: "In the last week or so we have concentrated on winning possession, keeping the ball and getting the full-backs forward.

"Now we must work on aspects of play further up the field, both in and out of possession, but I won't be giving too many secrets away."

Unitedites are advised that Bury FC will be holding a minute's silence for Drummer Lee Rigby. His funeral was held in the town on Friday.